Allée Bleue, the renowned wine, fruit and herb estate in the Franschhoek Valley, is set to become even more enticing to the whole family since the revitalisation and expansion of its hospitality offering. On the cards are a host of new events and activities.
The 135ha estate lies at the end of a tree-lined avenue, its vineyards and orchards radiating out from its historic manor buildings. Open to the public for tours, conferences and events, Allée Bleue is a year-round destination in the Cape winelands.
“Allée Bleue hospitality is moving into a new and exciting era to provide cutting edge service and trendsetting concepts,” says estate general manager Ansgar Flaatten. “These new offerings will take our presentation and guest experiences to a higher level.”
Among the plans in store is a new range of high teas, festivities and wedding concepts. Allée Bleue offers a full co-ordination package to assist brides create the wedding of their dreams. Already a popular conference venue, Allée Bleue will be revitalising this aspect of the business too.
“We have recently had a look at our business and where we want to go in the future. Most importantly, we’ve focused on what we want to be for our guests and are set to exceed their expectations,” says Flaatten.
Driving this fresh approach is newly appointed hospitality operations manager Johann van der Merwe, who comes with a wealth of experience accumulated over many years in senior positions at hotels, guesthouses and wine farms.
“Over the years I have been part of many different projects with a focus on weddings” says Van der Merwe, adding that his mission is simply “to create”. “There is an inspiration in every day – one should grasp it and create the unexpected!
“Allée Bleue is a preferred destination for many people. We plan to build on that and make it a favourite for many more families looking to relax, explore and experience something new, different and exciting,” he says.
Events and activities that have become entrenched in the Allée Bleue calendar include its upscale picnics or “chicnics” that no family should miss; and, its herb tours. Allée Bleue is one of the Western Cape’s biggest herb producers and offers enthusiasts the opportunity to go behind the scenes, followed by a herb-inspired lunch with wine.
